Finally had a chance to use the press for the first body. Why did I wait so long?
I took me about 5 minutes to spread the glue and attach the top and bottom. Into the press, a little adjustment and tada! A couple notes on final set up.
I put a sheet of acrylic plastic on the bottom and top platens to keep glue from adhering to the wood. I used to use wax paper, but it's a pain in the butt to deal with and isn't a permanent fix. I also put the entire machine on a work table that has wheels, so I can easily spin it around as I apply pressure and watch my progress. Finally, with this set up, I can take a damp rag and wipe off most of the excess glue which makes final edge sanding so much easier. The less glue the better for finishing too.
With my million clamp method of the past, I always had trouble clamping the center section because the edge clamps were always in my way. Plus it seemed to take forever to apply those clamps and I always felt rushed. This is much more satisfying. And I could do up to 3 bodies simultaneously if I ever need to.
Glue applied to bass.
Acrylic sheet on platen.
Bass sandwich!
Wiping off excess glue.
Bass comes out of the oven in 24 hours!